Used test: Audi A5 Sportback vs Chevrolet Volt vs Range Rover Evoque

The Audi A5 Sportback, Chevrolet Volt and Range Rover Evoque all offer something a little different, but which one makes the better used car buy?...

Used test: Audi A5 Sportback vs Chevrolet Volt vs Range Rover Evoque

Our Verdict

With three such disparate cars, it might seem a difficult task to pick a winner, especially because each one seems to offer something a little different. But surprisingly, in the final reckoning, there's a distinct hierarchy, with one standing out as a winner, and one car falling behind the other two.

The Volt is still a futuristic-looking vehicle, with the potential, if it fits into your lifestyle, to be very cheap to run. That it doesn’t always turn out to be so cheap in real-world motoring, with its limited electric-only range, is a disappointment. However, it is the cheapest to buy. That heavy depreciation is either a huge negative or, viewed from the point of view of someone buying one now to keep it for some time, a distinct advantage. In reality, it’s also symptomatic of the relative lack of sales success it enjoyed.

The Evoque is still a super-stylish and highly desirable car, despite the preponderance of them on the road. It’s not the best to drive here, though, and its strong residuals mean it’s expensive to buy next to the other two. On top of that, its inferior claimed fuel economy will make it the most expensive of the three to run. We still like the Evoque, but we think there are better versions to buy used than this one.

The understated Audi may be the most sober-looking car in this test, but it is the nicest car of the three to drive, and its strong performance and classy interior make it the best for anyone contemplating long journeys and motorway schleps. Its resale values split the other’s in two, and it also has the advantage of being more spacious and more practical. It’s the one we’d pick.

Read our review of the latest Audi A5 Sportback

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1st – Audi A5 Sportback

 

Used test: Audi A5 Sportback vs Chevrolet Volt vs Range Rover Evoque

For Strong performance; great to drive; classy interior

Against Offset driving position; firm low-speed ride

Verdict The best car here to drive, as well as the most spacious and practical

Rated 4 out of 5

Read the full used Audi A5 Sportback review

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2nd – Range Rover Evoque

 

Used test: Audi A5 Sportback vs Chevrolet Volt vs Range Rover Evoque

For Strong residual values; refined cruiser

Against Worst fuel economy here; unsettled ride; disappointing to drive

Verdict Not the best version of the Evoque, but still a highly desirable car

Rated 3 out of 5

Read the full used Range Rover Evoque review

Find a used Range Rover Evoque in the What Car? Classifieds


3rd – Chevrolet Volt

 

Used test: Audi A5 Sportback vs Chevrolet Volt vs Range Rover Evoque

For Potential fuel economy; futuristic looks

Against The least impressive here for quality, space and practicality

Verdict Cheap to buy now, but you’ll have to make sure it’ll fit into your lifestyle

Rated 3 out of 5

Read the full used Chevrolet Volt review

Find a used Chevrolet Volt in the What Car? Classifieds


Specifications: Audi A5 Sportback 2.0 TDI 177 SE

Engine size 2.0-litre diesel

List price when new £29,595

Price today £14,000*

Power 175bhp

Torque 280lb ft

0-60mph 9.4sec

Top speed 142mph

Fuel economy 61.4mpg (Official average)

CO2 emissions 120g/km


Specifications: Chevrolet Volt

Engine size 1.4-litre petrol (plus electric motor)

List price when new £29,995

Price today £11,000*

Power 150bhp

Torque 273lb ft

0-60mph 9.6sec

Top speed 99mph

Fuel economy 235.0mpg (Official average)

CO2 emissions 27g/km


Specifications: Range Rover Evoque eD4 Pure 5dr

Engine size 2.2-litre diesel

List price when new £27,955

Price today £17,000*

Power 148bhp

Torque 280lb ft

0-60mph 10.6sec

Top speed 112mph

Fuel economy 56.5mpg (Official average)

CO2 emissions 133g/km


Price today is based on a 2012 model with average mileage and full service history, correct at time of writing

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